Emeralds to the Fore!

Three years ago Ronald Ringsrud Co. began watching auction results in order to gain a sense of the popularity and prices of Colombian emeralds.

Trends noted at the time were the importance of origin; the Colombian origin commanded the highest prices, often by a factor of 2 (and seen as high as 4). The appearance of resin-filled emeralds (in the Fine Jewelry category; not Magnificent) made it clear that, if disclosed properly, an emerald with resin fissure-filling can sell (at a diminished price of course). Some historical or uniquely designed pieces had emealds with Moderate rather than Minor degree of clarity enhancement and sold also at smaller prices.

As always, size, provenance and a minor or no-oil certificate were the commanding criteria of rarity and price at any auction.

Piat Company in Paris has also been looking at auction prices as an indicator of trends. They put out a fascinating summary of the past two years in their latest newsletter. Piat is a name of great tradition in the jewelry and lapidary art world; known for their work with colored stones. They have a Bangkok workshop and a headquarters in Paris at the Rue de la Paiz – close to the famous Place Vendome.